This year we are adding a new element to our Honors Scholars event, the Edward W. Brooke Scholarship. In 2024, a $1000 scholarship will be made available to a student selected from among high school seniors in the towns the Chamber represents.

In 1966, Brooke, a Republican was elected to the US Senate from Massachusetts - the first African American ever popularly elected to that body. He also had an impressive career of overcoming adversity as an Army officer in World War II and as the Massachusetts Attorney General - again making history as the first Black elected to that role ever, in the United States.

High school students interested in applying should submit brief personal details as well as a short essay of less than 1000 words, explaining what we, in 2023, can learn from Brooke or should choose to emulate. The prompt and requirements for the essay will be sent to the High School by March 15, 2024.

Deadline for the submission was extended to May 31, 2024.

The award this year is $1000 for first place. If more money is raised, 2nd, 3rd scholarships will also be awarded.

Ed W. Brooke Scholarship Sponsors

Kimberly Pradko

Allen & Olympia Caswell

William Batchelor

Referencing the accomplishments and legacy Ed W. Brooke, as appropriate, in no more than 1,000 words, explain what we, in 2023, can learn from Brooke or should choose to emulate as individuals or in our larger society. Elements that could be addressed include (but are not limited to) the concept of diversity, what it means to be an American, overcoming adversity, contributing to society, etc. Cite at least two sources (title and author of a book or article or URL for an online source).

Essays will be judged primarily on their thoughtfulness and originality and secondarily on the quality of the writing.

Essays are due May 31, 2024. Please submit your essay in the form provided.